Maple Leafs place a defenceman on waivers, and it could signal a bigger move
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The Toronto Maple Leafs have placed Dakota Mermis on waivers which could signal that a bigger move such as trade is incoming for the team.
On Tuesday, the Maple Leafs made an interesting roster move by waiving defenseman Dakota Mermis, who joined Zach Aston-Reese and Brendan Gaunce as the others on the wire:
He registered one goal in 11 games this season.
It could be a move that leads the Maple Leafs to make a bigger move down the line, as there have been a ton of talks about whether or not the team should be buyers or sellers.
Mermis waiver assignment could lead to a bigger move soon
This could be the opening up of a roster spot and some cap space in order to add a player like Luke Schenn off the market. Mermis has been solid and the team does risk losing him as he was claimed last year as well before being scooped back up.
Mermis has had a tough go the last couple of seasons. After missing the end of 2023-24 with a broken jaw, he returned with Toronto and only played in a handful of games before being waived.
He was then picked up by Utah, played one game, was waived again and picked up by Toronto a second time. This year he was given more of a shot given the team’s injury issues but the hit by Goncalves derailed things.
Teams will have 24 hours to claim Mermis otherwise he will be assigned to the Toronto Marlies (AHL).
It will be an interesting storyline to follow as the Maple Leafs continue their quest for a playoff spot, with all eyes on them Tuesday night against Buffalo, where they could set themselves to succeed or utterly fail.
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Maple Leafs place a defenceman on waivers, and it could signal a bigger move
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